Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right school starts with the right questions.
At Hebrew Academy Community Day School in Huntington Beach, Orange County, we know families have many questions when choosing the right school. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions, organized by topic.
General Information
Understanding Hebrew Academy
Start here for the big-picture questions families often ask when first learning about Hebrew Academy.
What makes Hebrew Academy in Huntington Beach unique compared to other schools?
Hebrew Academy combines rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on Jewish values and community. Students excel in their studies while developing a deep-rooted Jewish identity and a strong sense of belonging.
In short, we nurture the whole child—academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
What ages and grades does Hebrew Academy serve?
Hebrew Academy welcomes children as young as 3 months in our Infant Care program and continues through high school.
Our divisions include:
- Infant Care (3 months – 24 months) – a safe, nurturing start for our youngest learners.
- Preschool (ages 2–4) – building independence, confidence, and a love of learning.
- Transitional Kindergarten (TK) – bridging preschool and kindergarten with a thoughtful balance of play, academic readiness, and growing independence.
- Lower School (K–5) – providing a strong academic foundation and Jewish values.
- Middle School (6–8) – encouraging leadership, curiosity, and personal growth.
- High School (girls, 9–12) – offering rigorous academics and a strong Jewish identity for young women.
Summary: Hebrew Academy in Huntington Beach serves children from 3 months through high school, offering infant care, preschool, lower school, middle school, and a girls’ high school.
Is Hebrew Academy only for religious families?
No. Hebrew Academy welcomes Jewish families from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Many families come in wondering if they’ll fit in and quickly find a community built on respect: for each student, each family, and a shared commitment to strong education and meaningful Jewish life.
School policies, such as kashrut and uniforms, are set to a high standard so that every family can feel comfortable, and no child is singled out. This allows all students to learn and grow together in an inclusive, respectful environment.
Most importantly, choosing Hebrew Academy does not mean compromising on academics. Our Judaic program provides a meaningful foundation in Hebrew, Torah, Jewish history, and values, while our rigorous general studies program ensures students are fully prepared for AP courses, college, and life beyond. Students who wish to go further in Judaics can explore electives, leadership opportunities, and advanced learning, while every child benefits from a strong, balanced education that prepares them to thrive.
Summary: Hebrew Academy is a welcoming Jewish day school in Orange County where families across the Jewish practice spectrum feel respected. Every student receives both a rigorous academic education and a meaningful Jewish foundation.
Academics
Strong learning with support where it matters
Families want to know their child will be challenged, supported, and prepared for what comes next.
How does Hebrew Academy ensure academic success?
Our curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire. We offer advanced placement courses, individualized learning plans, and enrichment opportunities in STEM, arts, and more. Dedicated teachers provide personal attention to help each child reach their full potential.
To support diverse learners, we use a layered approach that includes:
- Targeted intervention in reading, writing, and math when needed.
- Classroom accommodations and strategies guided by best practices.
- Collaboration with local public schools so students with IEPs and 504 Plans can access their supports at Hebrew Academy.
- Student Success Team (SST) meetings bring together teachers, parents, and specialists to create a shared plan for student growth.
While we may not be able to meet every situation, our goal is to give each student the tools, strategies, and encouragement they need to succeed.
Summary: The Hebrew Academy in Orange County offers advanced placement courses, small class sizes, and student support teams, enabling children, including those with IEPs or 504 Plans, to thrive academically.
What are the class sizes at Hebrew Academy?
We keep class sizes small to ensure personalized attention. This supportive environment allows teachers to focus on each student's individual needs.
How do Hebrew Academy students perform academically?
Hebrew Academy students consistently perform above state and national averages. For example, in our most recent AP Language Arts class, 80% of students passed the national exam with a score of 3 or higher — a success rate that outpaces both California and national averages.
Beyond test scores, Hebrew Academy graduates are accepted into respected colleges and universities, including the University of California system (such as UCLA and UCI), where they are recognized for their strong academic preparation, leadership, and confidence as learners.
Summary: Hebrew Academy students not only rise to academic challenges, such as AP exams, but also graduate ready to excel in higher education and beyond.
Jewish Life and Values
Jewish identity woven into the school experience
Jewish learning, Hebrew language, values, and Israel connection are part of how students grow with confidence and purpose.
How are Jewish values and learning part of the Hebrew Academy?
At Hebrew Academy, Judaic learning is integrated as a core part of our curriculum, alongside strong academics. Students develop Hebrew language skills, study Chumash (the Torah), explore Jewish history and holidays, and learn timeless values. More than content, they are guided by passionate role models who bring joy and love into the classroom.
Our students also gain a living connection to Israel through fluency in Hebrew and Israel-focused cultural programs.
This balanced approach prepares students not only with knowledge but also with the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations, lead with clarity, and achieve a deep understanding.
Summary: The Hebrew Academy’s Jewish curriculum encompasses Hebrew language, Torah study, holiday celebrations, and Israel programs, enabling students to develop their identity, pride, and leadership skills.
What opportunities are there for students to engage in Jewish life?
Students celebrate Jewish holidays through songs, crafts, stories, and engaging activities that make learning joyful. These experiences give children a sense of connection to Jewish traditions and values, while allowing every family to embrace them in their own way.
Summary: Hebrew Academy sparks curiosity and joy in Jewish life, supporting each family’s journey with meaning and warmth.
How does the Judaic program support my child’s overall education?
Our Judaic curriculum doesn’t just teach traditions; it builds essential skills that benefit students in every subject.
Through Torah study and Hebrew language, students:
- Strengthen analytical thinking by working closely with text, developing reasoning skills that transfer directly to math, science, and problem-solving.
- Grow as writers and communicators by reflecting on meaningful topics, learning to express ideas clearly, and writing about what matters to them.
- Develop cultural literacy and confidence by connecting lessons to identity, values, and big-picture questions.
Parents often tell us that Judaic studies give their children an edge, not just in Jewish knowledge, but in the critical skills needed for school, college, and life.
Summary: Judaic learning at the Hebrew Academy enhances academic performance, building stronger thinkers, writers, and leaders.
Community and Support
A place where children are known and supported
Academic growth happens best when students feel emotionally safe, connected, and supported by the adults around them.
How does Hebrew Academy support students’ emotional and social development?
We provide a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported. Our school counselor works with small groups, enters classrooms to teach emotional regulation tools, and offers individualized support where needed.
Hebrew Academy also follows Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD), a proactive approach that helps students take meaningful steps toward making positive choices, building accountability, and strengthening their resilience.
Through these supports, along with peer programs and extracurricular opportunities, students develop social-emotional skills that serve them in school and in life.
Summary: Students at Hebrew Academy receive social-emotional support through counseling, classroom lessons on emotional regulation, and Responsibility-Centered Discipline, helping them build resilience and confidence.
What is the role of parents in the community?
Parents are integral to our school life. We encourage active involvement through volunteering, parent associations, and ongoing communication with staff.
Summary: Families are true partners in the Hebrew Academy experience.
Admissions and Tuition
Taking the next step
We want the admissions process to feel clear, welcoming, and supportive for every family.
What is the admissions process?
Our admissions process includes a tour, family interview, and review of academic records. We aim to make it as smooth and welcoming as possible. Learn more on our Admissions Page.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. At Hebrew Academy, every child deserves the opportunity to benefit from a Jewish day school education. We are deeply committed to making that possible for families from all backgrounds.
Our financial aid program ensures that tuition is never a barrier for families who share our vision for their child’s growth and development. Qualified families can receive assistance tailored to their circumstances, making a Hebrew Academy education accessible and sustainable.
Summary: The Hebrew Academy in Huntington Beach offers financial aid and flexible tuition options, ensuring that the cost of a Jewish day school education is never a barrier.
How do I schedule a visit?
Contact our Admissions Office by phone or email, or use our Schedule a Tour form. We’d love to welcome you to our Huntington Beach campus.
Extracurricular Activities
Enrichment that builds confidence beyond the classroom
Students have opportunities to grow through movement, creativity, leadership, and hands-on exploration.
What extracurricular and enrichment activities are available to students?
At Hebrew Academy, enrichment is part of the school day — not just an afterthought. Alongside rigorous academics, students participate in programs that support their physical, creative, and personal growth.
- Physical Education (PE): led by a coach, with a focus on fitness, teamwork, and healthy habits.
- Art Program: In our Makerspace Art program, students learn artistic techniques while developing creativity, confidence, and self-expression. Guided by our art teacher, children are encouraged to experiment and explore materials as they create meaningful work of their own.
- Music & Creativity: Opportunities during the school day where students can explore interests such as guitar, visual arts, swimming, and other creative electives.
- Sunday Soccer Program: a popular community sports option in partnership with AYSO that builds skills and friendships.
By offering choice and variety within the school day, Hebrew Academy helps students discover passions, develop confidence, and thrive beyond the core classroom.
Summary: Hebrew Academy students enjoy in-school enrichment activities, including PE with a coach, Makerspace Art, music, guitar, swimming, and electives, as well as community sports through our Sunday Soccer program in partnership with AYSO.
Are there leadership opportunities?
Yes. Students participate in government, peer mentoring, and community service projects, gaining valuable real-world leadership experience.
Contact Us
Still have questions?
We’re happy to answer your questions and help you learn more about our programs, community, and values.
How can I learn more?
Visit our Contact Us Page or reach out to our Admissions Office directly at [email protected]. We are happy to answer questions and share more about our programs, community, and values.
Come see Hebrew Academy for yourself.
The best way to understand our school is to walk the campus, meet our team, and picture your child here.